This morning, I woke up, got ready as usual, jumped in the car and was off to work with about a million or so others. I didn't rely on anyone to help me with breakfast, help me get dressed or make sure I had my necessary items for the day (Blackberry and caffeine).

My normal routine when I arrive to work in the morning is to read the news, both conservative and liberal new outlets to make sure I know what people are really saying (as a good PR practioner should do), and I was very saddened to see an article this morning about our new president. (Click here to read it) I must admit, I did not vote for him, and I've come to agree strongly on some issues and disagree strongly on others. I believe that since he is our president, we should support and respect him (in most cases), but not on this.

Last night Obama appeared on Jay Leno's prime time show and the interview seemed to be a pleasant one until President Obama said something that broke hearts across America, including mine. (Click here to watch the last part of the conversation. And, as I watched the interview, I thought President Obama had some very important things to say and came across very knowledgeable as well as humorous.) Today's issue of USAToday quotes President Obama saying he apologizes for his inappropriate comment last night on Leno's show.  Here's the quote from USAToday, "..."Obama and Leno were joking about his bowling ability. Obama said he's been practicing and recently had a score of 129. That's not too high, and the president said that it was 'like Special Olympics or something." Joke or no joke, it was inappropriate for the President of the United States to say, no matter who he is or which way he casts his vote. (To read the response statement issued by the Special Olympics, click here.)

For someone who has an amazing speaking ability and gift (a gift I truly respect and wish I had), I am deeply disappointed in his actions last night. Not only did he hurt me, as a voter/activist, he hurt many of my family, friends, co-workers, neighbors and customers.  As a former volunteer for the Special Olympics, I've seen first hand the joy and friendships that can build during practices, games and the Olympics. Our family believes in Special Olympics and allowing opportunities for those among us who may have a few more extra needs than we do. With each interaction with one of God's special angels, I always come away feeling blessed.

Special Olympics participants may be limited to certain functions, but then again so are we in some way or another. I can't do everything by myself and nor would I want to! If you've never experienced a hug from someone truly joyous to see you this week just because, or happy they were able to run one lap around the track just because, or golf with someone who appreciates you just because, I recommend it. It is the best food for your soul.

When I read this tragic story, I immediately thought of my mother and father. Their love story (going on 39 years now) started when they both signed up to volunteer to help at a special needs camp, a camp that Carl Erskine's (former Dodger's baseball player) son attended. This issue was not questioned (and still isn't today. My parents taught me the importance of stewardship, service and community); it was a responsibility. Then, when I was around six years old, my mother and father allowed me to play softball with the local chapter of Special Olympics. I remember my dad told me I was playing with 'God's special angels sent to Earth.' It was from that experience, I grew to love the sport of softball and played for over 18 years, including traveling teams, high school, etc.

For as long as I can remember, every spring my father would go and cheer on the local Special Olympics. One, normally cold, Saturday, he would sit in the stands, among parents, friends and relatives of those competing, and cheer as loud and hard as he could. He even cheered in sign language, and still claps in sign language, no matter the event.

He recently took his cheering to the next level. For the past three years, my father has volunteered as a 'Special Olympics Buddy" with a man named Randy Granger. Randy and my dad would practice during the week, and play on the weekends. They've even placed 2nd overall in Indiana! :) Sadly, about a year ago, Randy's mother passed away, and without skipping a beat, my father was there for Randy. In fact, I can't remember a time when my father wasn't there for someone he loved, supported or cared for. I've never officially told him, but I'm so honored and proud to be his daughter. He's shown me the Earthly example of our Heavenly Father.

Issuing an official statement or 'using this as a teaching moment (a PR Tactic you learn in PR 101)' isn't going to fix the disappointment felt by a group of truly special people. I invite President Obama to step in the shoes of a Special Olympics Buddy, and to walk a mile in their shoes. I invite President Obama to attend a Special Olympics event and see the joy on everyone's face. 

Sure, this too shall pass and forgiveness is already given, but as the Special Olympics' press release states, "Words hurt and words matter.  Words can cause pain and result in
stereotypes that are unfair and damaging to people with intellectual
disabilities." All of us, no matter what our 'title' is, should do well to remember it.